Police Warn of Scam Involving Prepaid Money Cards

Police are investigating a scam in which a local couple was bilked out of thousands of dollars by an unknown suspect claiming to be affiliated with the Internal Revenue Service. The caller also claimed to be holding a family member in exchange for numbers associated with prepaid money cards in the victim’s possession. The victim relinquished information from the cards and the money was gone. No family member was actually held against his or her will.

In general, if anyone except a legitimate business asks for your card numbers, it could be a scam. Avoid using money card numbers if someone contacts you regarding prize winnings or sweepstakes, and do not use card numbers to purchase something from a classified advertisement. Do not give your card numbers to another person, unless you are absolutely certain of their credibility.

In most cases, the money lost from this type of scam is not insured, so when it is gone, it is gone.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.